The Best British Cars

There’s no denying that the UK has some of the best cars in the world, from practical family models to stunning, powerful sports cars. And despite the industry’s recent downturn, there are still a number of British manufacturers that are keeping things going.

One of the oldest British car makers, Aston Martin is known for its luxury cars with a touch of flamboyance. Its famous DB5 model even made an appearance in James Bond movies.

But it wasn’t until the 1970s that Aston Martin began to make its mark in the global market. The DB4 and DB5 models that followed are among the most iconic cars ever produced.

Aston Martin has a history of using its engineering know-how to create cars that are both luxurious and fast. This is particularly evident in the Aston Martin DB11, which is a true modern supercar.

Another big name from the UK, Jaguar produces a wide variety of models that are both elegant and rewarding to drive. From the svelte Jaguar F-Type to the opulent, roomy Jaguar XJL, there’s something for every type of motorist.

And of course, there’s the Mini, which is not only a popular small car, but an iconic symbol of Britishness. The original Mini was launched in 1959 and has been a hugely successful car throughout the decades.

As well as producing small and medium cars, the UK is also home to a few niche manufacturers that specialise in certain segments of the market. MG, for example, has been producing a range of sports cars for over 70 years. Its latest models are designed to appeal to a younger audience, with a range of exciting new models that include the MG TF roadster and the GT hatchback.

While there are some signs that the UK’s automotive industry is recovering, it can be difficult to know which cars to choose if you’re in the market for a new vehicle. To help you out, we’ve analyzed the starting on-the-road (OTR) prices of some of the most popular small cars, medium cars and smaller SUVs to see how much they will cost in 2023.

We’ve also included the prices of the car’s most powerful engine option to give you an idea of just how much extra power you’re getting for your money. Our figures are based on the current UK market and may vary slightly depending on what options you go for.

In its heyday, British Leyland (BL) had an impressive range of models. However, internal rivalries, the retention of legacy marques and models, and inefficient use of new production equipment hampered its attempts to modernise. In the late 1970s, BL embarked on a programme of rationalisation that saw it shut plants and reduce its workforce.